Tommi'S Tuna Casserole
Tommi's Tuna Casserole offers a comforting blend of tender pasta, creamy mushroom soup, and savory tuna, topped with crispy bread crumbs. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner, combining rich flavors with a satisfying texture that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in a small amount of melted margarine until cooked.
- Mix together cooked macaroni, sour cream, sauteed onion, cream of mushroom soup, and tuna fish.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Mix melted margarine with enough bread crumbs to make the topping.
- Place the bread crumb topping over the baked casserole and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce or any other cream soup. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. This dish is also a great way to utilize leftover cooked vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tommi's Tuna Casserole with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Jiffy Salmon Patties for a delightful seafood-themed dinner. For added flavor, consider serving with a side of garlic bread or a light vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tommi'S Tuna Casserole contains roughly 827 calories, with 11g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1048mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions before mixing it with the other ingredients. This allows for a fun twist on the classic recipe while maintaining the same delicious flavors.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining.
Can I freeze the tuna casserole?
Yes, Tommi's Tuna Casserole can be frozen. Assemble the casserole without the breadcrumb topping, cover it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then add the topping before baking. This ensures it remains crispy and delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).